Today’s Workout: This variation of a squat uses resistance band

Thursday

Most of us have done our fair share and will likely have more in our future.

The variations are endless, close stance, wide stance, elevated and pulsing, with and without weights. I’m going to add one more.

Our move today is a side stepping squat with a resistance loop. You will need an open area and a resistance band or loop for this exercise. This move is working everything a regular squat would: glutes, quads and hamstrings. And with the side steps, it is also working the inner and outer thighs. Adding the resistance loop intensifies the move.

Begin by sliding your resistance band up both of your legs, placing it just above your knees. Stretch the band slightly by standing with your feet just outside of your hip width. Holding your chest tall and engaging your core, you are ready to begin.

Once you are in position, proceed to bend in your knees into a seated position. Keep your chest tall, and drop your rear end fairly low. When you reach your lowest position in your squat, return almost to your starting position, stopping just before your legs are fully extended. With your knees still slightly bent, step one leg farther out to your side following with the other leg. Stopping roughly the same width as your starting squat, continue into your next squat.

Keep this momentum going by squatting and stepping to the side. Repeat in the opposite direction for an equal number of repetitions.

After a few sets, fatigue will definitely set in. By adding the band, you are intensifying an already great move.

-- Marlo Alleva, an instructor at Gold’s Gym and group fitness coordinator at Fontaine-Gills YMCA, in Lakeland, Florida, can be reached at faluvzpa@msn.com